TBD
Pastor’s Message “Striving on to What Lies Ahead”
Philippians 3:13-14 (NRSVUE) Brothers and sisters, I do not consider that I have laid hold of it [the goal of resurrection and joining in ministry with Christ (vs 10-12)], but one thing I have laid hold of: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal, toward the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.
Most of you know that this is the last newsletter I’ll write for Central. I am joyful about what we’ve accomplished together in ministry and count it a privilege to have served here. I also look forward to my retirement from pastoral ministry. Perhaps instead of seeing this transition as an ending, we both should look at it as a new beginning. I’ll be serving God in new ways, and I have confidence you will too. God has transformed Central in ways none of us could have imagined when I joined with you six years ago. I have confidence God will lead you to new and exciting ways to reach out into the community to share Christ’s grace and salvation. I’ve met with Pastor Bayo several times and truly believe God has sent him here to you. Pastor Bayo is a passionate and talented leader whose skills seem to be a particularly good fit for Central’s needs.
In verse 14 of the above text St. Paul urges the Philippians to “press on toward the goal, toward the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.” I see one of the key words in this phrase as “call.” I’ve learned from my own experience that God’s call on our lives is always changing, adapting to our gifts and the situation in our community. We’ve seen that in the past six years as we’ve gone through several difficult transitions. I believe the groundwork has been laid for Central to be fruitful and continue to grow in spirit, faith, and ministry. I look forward to seeing how the Spirit will move among you in the coming years. My prayers will continue to be lifted up for Central and each member of this church family. I also ask that you pray for my continued response to God’s call as I embark on doing pastoral counseling.
May God Bless You,
Pastor Shayne